Kickback '26

The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage is here! Michele Giannone and Eric Krakauer break down the final day of the group stage, including Colombia's statement performance to finish ahead of Portugal, the dramatic finish in Group J, Argentina's perfect group stage, and what the completed Round of 32 bracket tells us. Plus, they debate the tournament favorites, preview Canada vs. South Africa, and make their knockout stage predictions.0:00 Intro1:48 3 Big Things5:56 Group J Drama: Algeria & Austria Advance11:25 Messi Scores Again, Argentina Finish Perfect16:30 Colombia Wins Group K Over Portugal26:00 DR Congo’s Historic World Cup Run31:00 VAR Controversy: Colombia’s Disallowed Goal36:13 Group L Wrap Up, England Advances39:15 Round of 32 Bracket & Buy or Sell46:40 Golden Boot Race49:13 Canada vs. South Africa Preview58:10 Final Thoughts & Predictions

The race for the Round of 32 is nearly complete. David Gass, Matt Doyle and Eric Krakauer discuss Cape Verde making history by reaching the knockout stage in its World Cup debut, Senegal keeping its hopes alive, and Norway's outlook heading into the knockout rounds. Then they preview Portugal vs. Colombia and break down the decisive finales in Groups J and L.0:00 Intro2:16 3 Big Things10:19 Belgium & Egypt Advance, Iran Still Alive24:44 Cape Verde Makes History, Uruguay Falls Short42:41 Senegal Survives, Norway Eyes Knockouts50:30 England, Croatia & Ghana: Group L Scenarios56:32 Portugal vs. Colombia: Winner Takes Group K?1:07:46 Algeria & Austria Battle for Group J Position

The World Cup group stage is nearing its conclusion as the Round of 32 begins to take shape. David Gass, Michele Giannone and Eric Krakauer break down the USMNT's group stage finale, Ecuador's dramatic push into the knockout rounds, the Netherlands winning Group F and the biggest storylines from Groups D, E and F. Plus, they look ahead to the decisive matches that will complete the knockout bracket.0:00 Intro3:02 3 Big Things10:43 USMNT Wraps Up Group Stage28:01 Netherlands Wins Group F39:27 Ecuador Reaches the Knockout Round58:28 Mbappé vs. Haaland for Group I1:04:43 Can Senegal Reach the Knockout Round?1:07:24 Bielsa & Uruguay Drama1:18:31 Group G Comes Down to the Wire1:24:07 Level Up: Belgium's Fernandez-Pardo1:29:44 Cape Verde's World Cup Magic

Vini Jr. leads Brazil to the top of Group C, Canada reaches the knockout rounds despite defeat, and South Africa celebrates a historic World Cup moment. Jordan Angeli, David Gass and Matt Doyle break down the biggest results from the day, including Mexico's perfect group stage, before previewing the USMNT's decisive Group D finale against Türkiye. Plus, the crew breaks down the knockout scenarios in Groups E and F as the race for the Round of 32 comes down to the final matchday, and Sky Sports' Sam Obaseki joins the show.0:00 Intro3:57 Three Big Things8:33 South Africa Makes History16:01 Mexico Finishes a Perfect Group Stage21:43 Canada Advances Despite Defeat32:23 Vini Jr. Leads Brazil, Morocco Advances & Scotland Stays Alive47:08 Group E Preview: Ivory Coast, Ecuador & Curaçao Battle for Knockout Berths53:32 Group F Preview: Japan, Netherlands & Sweden Fight for First Place55:57 USMNT Faces Türkiye; Paraguay & Australia Battle for Survival1:02:17 Sky Sports' Sam Obaseki Joins the Show

Cristiano Ronaldo makes more history, England falls flat and Croatia keeps its World Cup hopes alive. David Gass, Jordan Angeli and Michele Giannone break down the biggest stories from Matchday 13 before previewing a decisive day of simultaneous group finales. Canada faces a win-and-in showdown with Switzerland, Brazil and Morocco battle for Group C positioning, and the race for second place behind Mexico goes down to the final matchday.0:00 Intro4:10 How Teams Advance & Knockout Projections18:58 Portugal, Ronaldo Roll Past Uzbekistan23:40 Colombia Defeats DR Congo33:30 England Frustrated by Ghana42:39 Croatia Keeps Hopes Alive vs. Panama46:11 Canada vs. Switzerland: Win and In?58:41 Brazil and Morocco Battle for Group C1:05:00 Mexico Wraps Up Group A Play1:11:16 South Korea vs. South Africa Preview

Lionel Messi made history for Argentina, Algeria kept its World Cup hopes alive and France booked its place in the knockout rounds on Day 12 of the tournament. David Gass, Jordan Angeli and Matt Doyle break down all the action before turning their attention to Day 13, where Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal face mounting pressure, England takes on Ghana, Colombia meets DR Congo and Croatia looks to bounce back against Panama.0:00 Intro1:53 3 Big Things13:18 Messi Makes History Against Austria18:46 Algeria Still Alive24:37 Weather Delays, France Advances31:30 Haaland, Norway Hold Off Senegal40:50 North American Update: Canada's Ismaël Koné46:25 Ronaldo and Portugal Face Uzbekistan52:36 Colombia Showdown with DR Congo1:01:30 England Battles Ghana1:03:24 Croatia Looks to Bounce Back Against Panama

Spain finally found their scoring touch against Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde continued their stunning World Cup run, and Belgium stumbled again as the drama ramped up on Day 11 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. David Gass, Jordan Angeli, and Michele Giannone break down all the biggest stories from the day, project the USMNT lineup for its showdown with Türkiye, welcome Volair Shabila to discuss Iraq's tournament, and look ahead to another loaded slate of matches featuring Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland.0:00 Intro3:45 Three Big Things10:34 Spain & Lamine Yamal Shine vs. Saudi Arabia18:05 Cape Verde's Dream Run Continues26:13 Belgium Stumbles Again31:26 Egypt Earns First World Cup Win38:32 Projecting the USMNT XI vs. Türkiye43:00 FM Tactics Board: Balogun45:20 Volair Shabila on Iraq's Rise56:25 Messi Returns as Argentina Face Austria1:02:49 Ranking France's Best Kits1:08:19 Senegal Faces Must-Win Match1:13:06 Nightcap: Jordan vs. Algeria

David Gass and Michele Giannone are back talking about all the action from Day 10, including a rout by the Netherlands against Sweden, Germany punching its ticket to the next round against Ivory Coast and a historic scoreless draw between Curaçao and Ecuador. The pair plays another game of Buy or Sell this time looking at the Mexico, Canada and the USA and look ahead to a pressure-filled day as everyone on Day 11 is sitting one point.0:00 Intro2:55 Buy or Sell: North American Edition13:30 Netherlands Rout Sweden20:26 Japan Tops Tunisia With Four Goals25:52 Germany Edges Ivory Coast To Advance38:48 Curaçao and Ecuador Stalemate50:10 Spain Looks to Bounce Back Against Saudi Arabia54:45 Uruguay Battles Cape Verde58:47 Belgium Faces Iran1:02:22 New Zealand vs. Egypt

The United States is through to the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup! David Gass and Michele Giannone are back to discuss Alex Freeman’s breakout performance and look ahead to the USA’s last group game and beyond. Plus, Paraguay earns a dramatic victory despite playing down a man, Türkiye faces mounting frustration, Morocco holds off Scotland, Brazil cruises to another win, and Sweden strengthens its position in Group C. The guys also look ahead to key Matchday 11 matchups, including Germany vs. Ivory Coast and Ecuador's must-win showdown with Curaçao.0:00 Intro2:06 USMNT Clinches Group D12:30 Alex Freeman's Breakout 18:00 Pochettino's Lineup Decisions & Future22:48 Paraguay Wins Despite Red Card29:56 Türkiye's World Cup Frustration36:27 What's Next for Australia and Paraguay?39:24 Morocco Survives Scotland Test43:04 Brazil Wins, But Raphinha Concern Looms48:05 The World Cup's Physical Demands50:12 Sweden vs. Netherlands Breakdown55:11 Tunisia and Japan Wrap Up Matchday 1057:45 Germany vs. Ivory Coast Preview1:01:52 Ecuador's Must-Win Against Curaçao

It’s all about Concacaf at the 2026 FIFA World Cup today. David Gass, Michele Giannone and Matt Doyle break down Mexico securing a spot in the knockout round with a win over South Korea and Canada's historic 6-0 victory over Qatar behind a Jonathan David hat trick. Then the crew previews a pivotal Group D showdown as the United States takes on Australia in Seattle with major knockout-round implications. Plus, a look at the other games today including Scotland vs. Morocco, Brazil under pressure against Haiti, and Türkiye vs. Paraguay.0:00 Intro4:08 3 Big Things12:41 Mexico Advances Against South Korea25:56 Canada Drops Six on Qatar36:00 Johan Manzambi and the Group B Outlook39:32 Golden Boot Race Update42:40 USMNT vs. Australia in Seattle54:40 Favorite USMNT Kits of All Time1:00:05 Scotland vs. Morocco Showdown1:05:19 Brazil Under Pressure vs. Haiti1:10:25 Türkiye vs. Paraguay Clash

Matchday 1 is complete, and Michele Giannone and Matt Doyle play a round of Buy or Sell on the biggest teams, players and storylines from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They break down England's statement win behind Harry Kane, Portugal's frustrating draw with DR Congo, Panama's disappointing start and Colombia's victory over Uzbekistan. The duo also checks in on Christian Pulisic and the latest from USMNT camp before looking ahead to pivotal second matches for Canada and Mexico, with Edson Álvarez, Gilberto Mora and El Tri aiming to take another step toward the knockout rounds.0:00 Intro + Buy or Sell: England, France & Ronaldo12:50 DR Congo Earn Historic Point, Portugal Frustrate20:14 Harry Kane Leads England's Statement Win29:23 Panama's Disappointing Start34:44 Colombia Gets the Job Done45:22 Christian Pulisic and the USMNT Update52:04 Czechia-South Africa & Switzerland-Bosnia Preview55:13 Canada Hosts Qatar at BC Place59:19 Mexico, Edson Álvarez & Gilberto Mora1:06:40 The Tournament's Biggest Tactical Trends

Day 6 dazzled at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the stars took center stage. Susannah Fuller, David Gass and Matt Doyle break down Kylian Mbappé's record-breaking performance for France, Erling Haaland's standout World Cup debut for Norway and another milestone moment from Lionel Messi as Argentina opened its campaign. Then the crew looks ahead to another huge day of action, including England and Harry Kane's showdown with Croatia, Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal's tournament debut, Colombia's clash with Uzbekistan and what Cyle Larin's role could mean for Canada moving forward.0:00 Three Big Things8:47 Mbappé Breaks Another Record19:01 Haaland's World Cup Arrival27:24 Messi Hits Another Milestone37:00 Jordan Pushes Austria to the Limit43:05 Golden Boot Race Update46:33 What Is Cyle Larin's Role for Canada?50:14 Portugal and Ronaldo Against DR Congo56:54 England vs. Croatia Preview1:05:07 Ghana and Panama Meet in Toronto1:07:56 Colombia Faces Uzbekistan1:13:25 Closing Thoughts

Cape Verde delivers the shock of the 2026 World Cup by taking points off Spain, while Belgium and Egypt share the spoils and Saudi Arabia frustrates Uruguay and New Zealand and Iran with a wild match to cap off the night. Susannah Fuller, Matt Doyle and David Gass break it all down from a day of draws at the World Cup.Attention turns to France and Argentina as two of the tournament favorites begin their World Cup campaigns. Will France vs. Senegal deliver? Can Erling Haaland lead Norway on the game's biggest stage? And after one of the most remarkable qualifying journeys in recent memory, Iraq finally gets its World Cup moment.Plus, a stop in Lawrence, Kansas, Doyle's tactical breakdown on Lionel Messi and a discussion about who replaces César Montes at center back for Mexico.0:00 Intro2:15 Three Big Things5:53 Tunisia Hires Hervé Renard & England Injury News13:23 Cape Verde Stuns Spain19:40 Saudi Arabia Frustrates Uruguay25:55 Lukaku Rescues Belgium Against Egypt32:10 Iran vs. New Zealand Delivers MLS After Dark Vibes39:00 Algeria Finds a Home in Kansas47:05 Who Replaces César Montes for Mexico?49:50 South Korea's Hot Mic Controversy52:05 France vs. Senegal Preview56:29 Erling Haaland's World Cup Debut1:00:12 Doyle’s Tactics Session: Argentina’s Messi System1:02:30 Argentina Opens Against Algeria1:05:18 Austria vs. Jordan Nightcap1:07:17 Cape Verde’s GOAT Celebration

Day 5 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered more drama as Tunisia fired its coach, Japan and the Netherlands played one of the matches of the tournament and Germany put seven past Curaçao. Susannah Fuller and David Gass break down all the action from Groups E and F, including Sweden's red-hot attack and Ivory Coast's late win over Ecuador. Then Flo Lloyd-Hughes (The Cutback) joins the show to discuss the tournament so far, England's outlook, Harry Kane and the day's upcoming matches, including Spain vs. Cape Verde, Belgium vs. Egypt, Uruguay vs. Saudi Arabia and Iran vs. New Zealand.0:00 Intro2:28 Three Big Things7:39 Breaking News: Tunisia Fires Coach13:12 Gyökeres-Isak Partnership Powers Sweden18:11 Germany Scores Seven, Curaçao Gets Its Moment23:43 Japan and Netherlands Deliver a Classic30:18 Ivory Coast Strikes Late36:49 Top 5 Kit Matchups48:38 Flo Lloyd-Hughes on England, Harry Kane and the World Cup1:06:46 Mexico's Unofficial Mascot: Merlin1:08:41 Uruguay Faces Saudi Arabia1:11:44 Spain Enters the Tournament1:14:28 Belgium Meets Egypt1:19:09 New Zealand Faces a Big Challenge

Day 4 of the World Cup here we go. Susannah Fuller, David Gass and Matt Doyle break down Qatar's dramatic draw with Switzerland, Brazil and Morocco's heavyweight showdown, Scotland's first World Cup win in 28 years and Australia's statement victory over Turkiye led by Nestory Irankunda. Plus, Doyle reacts to the USMNT's opening win and looks ahead to Game 2 as the crew previews Germany vs. Curaçao, Netherlands vs. Japan, Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador and more from another packed day at the World Cup.0:00 Gass Celebrates the Knicks4:46 Three Big Things10:06 Qatar's Dramatic First World Cup Point14:11 Brazil-Morocco Lives Up to the Hype19:06 Scotland's Historic World Cup Win23:12 Irankunda Sparks Australia Past Turkiye28:55 Doyle on the USMNT and Game Two34:04 Can Curaçao Challenge Germany?37:03 Netherlands Meets Japan40:04 Ivory Coast-Ecuador Showdown45:00 Sweden Faces Tunisia48:48 Merlin the Duck in Mexico City

Susannah Fuller, David Gass and Michele Giannone break down the USA's 4-1 win over Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup, discuss Canada's first-ever World Cup point in their game against Bosnia & Herzegovina and preview today's matches headlined by Morocco vs. Brazil. 0:00 USMNT's Statement Win Over Paraguay22:26 Folarin Balogun's Golden Boot Race & USA Standouts37:40 Canada's Tournament-Opening Draw47:58 Qatar vs. Switzerland Preview50:52 Brazil vs. Morocco Showdown1:05:50 Haiti vs. Scotland Matchup1:13:15 Australia vs. Turkiye Breakdown1:19:20 Final Thoughts

Susannah Fuller, Matt Doyle and David Gass get you ready for the USA's opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Paraguay with Doyle's latest USMNT tactical session, a Football Manager 2026 simulation, and a full match preview. Plus, the crew recaps the opening day of the World Cup, including Mexico's historic win over South Africa and South Korea's comeback victory against Czechia, before looking ahead to Canada vs. Bosnia & Herzegovina.0:00 Intro3:42 Three Big Things8:30 Mexico vs. South Africa Recap18:22 South Korea vs. Czechia Recap23:20 Doyle's USMNT Tactical Session27:50 Football Manager USA World Cup Simulation34:37 USA vs. Paraguay Preview51:06 Canada vs. Bosnia & Herzegovina Preview1:02:25 Lamine Yamal Is One of Us

The day has finally arrived and Susannah Fuller, Matt Doyle and David Gass give you all their fun soccer picks and predictions heading into the 2026 World Cup. They talk a little US and Canada with a special tactical breakdown from Doyle and a special World Cup simulation before the crew previews the first games of the tournament: Mexico against South Africa and a showdown between South Korea and Czechia.0:00 Intro4:53 1 Wish for this World Cup9:36 The Tourney Favorites15:40 The Dark Horses22:00 Vibes SC Picks26:26 Football Manager World Cup simulation30:15 Talkin’ USMNT35:57 Canada’s Prospects40:07 Doyle’s Tactical Segment43:52 Mexico vs. South Africa 53:15 South Korea vs. Czechia59:55 Declan Rice Sunburn

On this episode of First Touch Dispatch, we give you all the latest news, from the injuries to key players, NYC watch parties, and a closer look at the legacy that the 2026 World Cup will leave.0:46 Injuries on the Rise3:00 Shooting near England Base Camp3:52 NYC Watch Parties4:55 USMNT Ticket Prices7:09 A Closer Look - The Legacy of World Cup 202612:04 Eric and Producer Brad give their World Cup predictions

David Gass, Matt Doyle, Susannah Fuller and Tom Bogert go live from Soccer House in Chicago for a World Cup Golden Boot Draft, building their teams and predicting which stars will lead the tournament in goals. The group also discusses breakout candidates, tournament favorites, favorite World Cup memories and the fan cultures that make the tournament special.Please note: This episode was recorded live at Soccer House in Chicago ahead of the World Cup. Audio quality may differ from our standard studio recordings.

David Gass is joined by Ryan Hunn and Musa Okwonga from Stadio to discuss what has them most excited as the World Cup approaches. The crew shares the players, teams, matches and moments they'll be watching throughout the month, from Mexico's opportunity on home soil and Brazil under Carlo Ancelotti to the stars who could define this tournament and shape the next decade of the game.0:00 Welcome & France-Senegal Showdown3:17 Mexico's Opportunity on Home Soil10:41 World Cup Dreamers and Cinderella Runs14:46 James Rodríguez, Colombia & World Cup Magic17:17 The Stars of the Next Decade22:34 Brazil Under Ancelotti30:00 Why You Have to Watch the Boring Games

On this episode of First Touch Dispatch we give the latest updates on injuries forcing players to withdraw from the tournament, a record breaking counterfeit merchandise bust, and a closer look at the new rules being implemented at the World Cup. All that and more on First Touch Dispatch.0:42 Injuries to Key Players2:46 Thomas Partey Ghana Inclusion4:11 Counterfeit Merchandise Bust5:39 Field Conditions8:52 A Closer Look - New Rules12:54 One For the Road - MLS Players at WC '26

Susannah Fuller and David Gass break down the expanded World Cup format, the pressure facing some of the tournament favorites, and the teams generating the most intrigue heading into the summer. From the USMNT roster reveal and Jesse Marsch’s new Canada deal to France’s loaded squad, Brazil’s expectations under Carlo Ancelotti, Colombia’s top-heavy roster, and the group stage matches they can’t wait to watch, there’s no shortage of storylines as the countdown to the World Cup continues.0:00 Scott McTominay, Jesse Marsch & USMNT Roster News9:41 The Expanded World Cup Effect13:27 France Looks Loaded, Colombia’s Top-Heavy Squad18:02 Biggest World Cup Snubs20:30 Teams Under Pressure & Crash Outs25:15 Must-Watch Group Stage Matches

On this week's edition of First Touch Dispatch, we dive into the latest news surrounding the World Cup. Iran has officially moved their basecamp to Mexico, Messi has an injury scare, and the USMNT roster is now OFFICIALLY announced.0:36 Iran Base Camp Relocation1:58 Spain Roster Backlash3:23 Messi Injury Scare5:11 AC Milan, Juventus and the Italian National Team6:16 England's Pre-Tournament Players8:06 A Closer Look - USMNT Roster11:56 One For The Road - Kochen + Rick

Bosnia and Herzegovina returns to the World Cup with one of international soccer’s most emotional national team stories. We explore the country’s complex football history, the memories of Bosnia’s first World Cup appearance in 2014, and the dramatic road back to the global stage fueled by one of soccer’s most passionate fanbases, Bosnian icon Edin Džeko, and a new generation featuring Esmir Bajraktarević.

Sweden returns to the World Cup with a history bigger than many realize and a new generation trying to add to it. We break down the Blue and Yellow’s controversial road to 2026, Graham Potter’s influence, Lukas Bergvall’s emergence, and the enduring impact of Zlatan Ibrahimović on Swedish football.

World Cup roster season is here, bringing dream call-ups and heartbreaking omissions for players around the globe. Susannah Fuller discusses some of the notable snubs ahead of 2026 and the most memorable roster announcement videos so far. Then David Gass dives into the difficult reality of missing out on soccer’s biggest stage as former U.S. international and current LA Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney shares his own experience of falling short of a World Cup roster.0:00 World Cup roster drama & biggest snubs3:09 The best World Cup roster reveal videos6:04 The heartbreak of missing out17:38 Roberto Lopez’s Cape Verde send-off

Susannah Fuller is joined by Stadio’s Musa Okwonga for a conversation about DR Congo’s return to the World Cup after more than 50 years away. Together, they discuss the country’s history and identity through soccer, the emotion surrounding the Leopards and their supporters, and the mix of experienced and emerging players hoping to make an impact in 2026.

On this episode of First Touch Dispatch, we dive into roster announcements, players getting political and a deep look into the mass amount of injuries heading into this World Cup. All that and more on this edition of First Touch Dispatch.0:37 DR Congo1:12 Roster Announcements4:20 Mbappe Gets Political6:07 Climate Concerns7:58 A Closer Look: Overuse and Injuries 12:14 One for the Road: Messi vs. La Familia

David Gass explores Colombia’s World Cup identity, the legacy of James Rodríguez, and why Los Cafeteros continue to inspire such passion ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Featuring perspectives from journalists Andy Deossa and Carl Worswick on Colombia’s history, culture, and connection to the national team, plus the latest World Cup news from around the globe.0:00 World Cup News Roundup4:39 Colombia’s World Cup Story7:55 The Legend of James Rodríguez11:20 How Colombia Comes Alive for the World Cup

On this episode of First Touch Dispatch we dive into the injuries plaguing two CONCACAF Nations, the state of Dual nationals and an MLS international star whose tenure is over nearly as quickly as it started.0:37 Johnny Cardoso 2:12 Alphonso Davies 3:54 Curaçao5:37 NJ Transit6:44 Neymar 9:18 Closer Look: Dual Nationals 15:16 One for the Road: James Rodriguez

Iraq is headed back to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years after one of the longest and most dramatic qualification journeys in the world. Valair Shabilla explores how soccer became a source of unity and hope through decades of war, hardship, and political turmoil, from the unforgettable 2007 Asian Cup triumph to the celebrations that followed qualification for 2026. Plus, a look at Iraq’s current squad, the rise of dual-national talent, legendary captain Younis Mahmoud, and what this return to the world stage means for Iraqis around the world.

Czechia is back at the World Cup for the first time in 20 years after surviving two dramatic penalty shootouts in qualifying. Host David Gass explores the country’s deep soccer history, from the glory days of Czechoslovakia to the golden generation led by Pavel Nedvěd and Petr Čech. Plus, a look at the current squad led by Patrik Schick and Tomáš Souček, Prague’s fierce club rivalries, and whether Czechia can make noise at the 2026 World Cup.

Turkey is back at the World Cup for the first time since its legendary 2002 run, and a new golden generation is raising expectations once again. Host David Gass explores the history of Turkish soccer, the passion behind the country’s biggest clubs, and the stars leading the 2026 squad, including Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Arda Güler, and Kenan Yıldız. Plus, a look at Turkey’s path back to the tournament and whether this team can make a deep run on the world stage.

This week, host David Gass breaks down the latest news with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon before talking with Michael McColl, managing editor of AFTN (Away From The Numbers), about the Vancouver Whitecaps situation. Then, David and Susannah Fuller look back at how social media and memes helped turn the 2014 World Cup into the first truly viral World Cup.0:20 News on Australia, Edin Džeko & Haiti 3:06 Vancouver Whitecaps Saga 13:50 The 2014 Viral World Cup

On this episode of First Touch Dispatch, Eric Krakauer spins around the sporting globe for the most important World Cup headlines, including the changes to the yellow card accumulation rule, Memo Ochoa chasing history, the "Passport Gate" scandal, FIFA's proposed youth initiative, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino's comments on Iran's World Cup status. We then take a closer look into the American influence this World Cup will feature. To round out the show we address a World Cup host city that could be losing the club that has called it home for over 50 years. All that on this edition of First Touch Dispatch.0:49 Yellow Cards2:39 Memo Ochoa 6th World Cup4:23 Passport Gate In The Netherlands6:43 FIFA Youth Initiative8:04 Infantino's Iran Comments9:37 A Closer Look - Americana at the World Cup15:04 One for the Road - Vancouver Whitecaps

On this week's episode, host David Gass explores the ambition, growth, and the state of the game through the lens of several teams heading to the 2026 World Cup. This episode opens with news on updated yellow and red card rules for the World Cup, a German national team fighting for fitness, and an Iranian official being denied entry into Canada for a FIFA Conference. Gass is then joined by John Duerden—a Guardian and BBC contributor and author of How Soccer Explains Asia—to break down World Cup outlook for countries from the Asian Football Confederation. Then Gass and fellow Kickback contributor Tom Bogart are joined by former Pumas and Pueblo sporting director, Edward Saracho to discuss the current state of the Mexico national football team and the broader landscape of soccer in Mexico.0:30 News On German & Mexican World Cup Rosters3:15 John Durden "How Soccer Explains Asia" On Korea, Japan & Saudi Arabia14:50 Eduardo Saracho (former Pumas & Puebla Sporting Director) On All Things El Tri & Mexican Soccer

This week on First Touch Weekly, host David Gass breaks down the biggest stories shaping the road to the 2026 World Cup—from Estêvão potentially missing the tournament to injury concerns surrounding Lamine Yamal. Gass is then joined by our soccer friend, Ryan Hunn of the Stadio podcast to discuss witnessing history as New Jersey native, Pellegrino Matarazzo led Real Sociedad to Copa del Rey glory becoming the first American head coach to win a major trophy in one of Europe’s top five leagues. The episode then explores one of the most overlooked yet critical elements of the World Cup—the team basecamp. Featuring insights from leadership at Kansas City Current, hosts of the Netherlands, and Bentley University, which will be France’s home base, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how infrastructure, environment, and location can shape tournament success.1:00 News On Injuries To Young Stars & Coaching Hiring + Firing4:30 Ryan Hunn Takes Us To Seville13:25 Base Camp Exploration With KC Current & Bentley University

This week host David Gass explores the characters that make a World Cup Special—the journeymen coaches, the big personalities, the cult heroes. To do so, Gass is joined by Eric Krakauer to discuss the winding and crazy coaching career of Carlos Queiroz, the newly appointed manager of Ghana. We are then joined by our friend Musa Okwonga from the Stadio podcast to define what it means to be a World Cup “cult hero” and and spotlight a handful of players who embody the spirit, drama, and mythology of world’s biggest tournament.1:05 News On US Sporting Director Leaving For Saudi Arabi2:25 Carlos Queiroz Hired By Ghana And What Makes Him Special w/Eric13:20 What Makes A World Cup Cult Hero16:45 Six Cult Heroes From Our Hosts

Let’s hear it for the fans—or not. Host David Gass breaks down the good, bad, and ugly of the World Cup 2026 fan experience as we meet Hazel and Gregor, two long-standing members of Scotland’s famed Tartan Army (the good), breakdown how FIFA ticketing continues to make it impossible to afford (or experience) the upcoming World Cup (the bad), to commuting logistics that may potentially stealing the match-day experience from the fans (the ugly).0:43 News3:34 Ticket Changes & Travel Issues For 2026 World Cup9:03 Behind The Scenes Of Tartan Army's Epic Travel Experience Watching Scotland19:33 Bosnia Coming "Home" To St. Louis

We have a World Cup. With the completion of the UEFA and intercontinental playoffs, all 48 nations are now confirmed—the countdown is officially on. Hosts David and Susannah cover all the action, from the jubilation of Iraq, Sweden, DR Congo, and Bosnia and Herzegovina qualifying, to the heartbreak of Kosovo, Ukraine, Denmark, and Italy falling short. We also hear from Michele Giannone on how he really feels about his beloved Italy missing out—again—as well as from our own Valair Shabilla, recorded live from Monterrey, Mexico, where he witnessed his homeland, Iraq, qualify for the first time in 40 years.2:55 News On Under Fire World Cup Managers5:10 Recap Of World Cup Playoffs15:37 Valair Shabilla Takes Us On The Ground To Iraq vs Bolivia20:30 Esmir Bajraktarevic, Bosnia & Italy's Pain w/Michele Giannone

We move ever closer to the kickoff of the 2026 World Cup and the hottest name on everyone’s lips is Norway. It has been 26 years since Norway has made any senior tournament. But they come into this World Cup flying as the highest scorer in UEFA. Our host David gets to the genius of this huge turnaround with two key members of the change former Norwegian international Pa-Modou Kah & current young phenom Antonio Nusa. Before that we hit the news with kit releases, controversy between Wales & Bosnia Herzegovina and they talk to Boston Globe reporter Chris Serres about some of the concerns in Massachusetts around World Cup preparations.1:47 Bosnia's Coach Calls Out Welsh Club Coach Steve Cooper3:28 Ben White's England Return4:04 Nike's World Cup Kit Release5:13 Boston Globe's Chris Serres On World Cup Preperations15:12 Norway's Golden Generation w/Antonio Nusa & Pa-Modou Kah25:03 DR Congo 1974 World Cup Moment

Host David Gass is joined by soccer friend Musa Okwonga—co-host of Stadio, an exciting new partner of Kickback Soccer Media—to break down the biggest World Cup playoff storylines. They dive into why Italy and Turkey have the most to lose, while Kosovo and Ireland are playing with house money, before revisiting iconic playoff moments like Australia’s 2005 win over Uruguay and Ronaldo vs. Zlatan in 2013. The episode wraps with early, bold predictions on who will make the World Cup.1:40 News AFCON, Finalissima & Neymar's Brazil Time Coming To An end5:19 World Cup Playoff Preview w/Musa Okwonga Both UEFA & Intercontinental28:55 Greatest Stories & Moments In Playoff History51:00 Too Early World Cup Prediction

Host David Gass breaks down Iraq’s crucial World Cup playoff match, and why it could be in jeopardy, joined by journalist Valair Shabilla. Then, ahead of the upcoming France vs. Brazil March friendly, Gass and Susannah Fuller look back one of the most iconic matches in World Cup history, the 1998 World Cup final. We close with the story of Egyptian legend Mohamed Aboutrika, one of the greatest players in African football history.1:15 Global Soccer News3:50 Valair Shabilla On Iraqs Travel Concerns & Iran World Cup Play11:55 Reliving 1998 World Cup Final France vs Brazil28:15 Forgotten Legend Egyptian Great Mohamed AboutrikaIf you want to relive the 1998 Final in person. Brazil and France will be going toe to toe at Gillette Stadium on March 26th click here for tickets

Host Susannah Fuller is back for Episode 2 of the first 2026 World Cup 2026 focused podcast. First she is joined by journalist Jon Arnold as he breaks down what Dick Advocaat's absence means for The Blue Wave of Curacao ahead of this summer's World Cup. Next, we discuss what makes the Canadian city of Brampton such a soccer powerhouse with former head of development at famed Sigma FC and current Forge FC head coach Bobby Smyrniotis. Finally, we wrap up with an often-forgotten Austrian hero who stood up for the Austrian resistance then died under mysterious circumstances.Make sure to subscribe to Jon's newsletter, Getting CONCACAFed here!3:25 Jon Arnold On Curacao Manager Change & Future Of CONCACAF 12:57 Brampton Ontario Soccer Powerhouse w/ Bobby Smyrniotis19:30 Austrian Legend The Mozart Of Football

Susannah Fuller hosts the premiere episode of First Touch Weekly as dive into the biggest questions surrounding the road to the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Guardian’s Senior Sports Editor Alexander Abnos breaks down whether a World Cup boycott is truly possible and what it would mean for fans, players, and national teams. Then, we look back at the U.S.’s failed bid to host the 1986 World Cup with veteran journalist Michael Lewis, exploring how that collapse reshaped U.S. Soccer and set the foundation for the modern American game. We close with one of the strangest stories in soccer history, the mystery of South Korea’s “cursed” gold medals.If you want to hear more from Michael Lewis his newest book looking back on 40 years of soccer coverage is available now here.2:38 Alex Abnos (The Guardian) On Potential World Cup Boycott14:32 Story Of The USA's Failed 1986 World Cup Hosting Bid24:30 South Korea's Gold Medal CurseListen to our shows, and subscribe to our newsletter at: https://kickbacksoccer.com/.

We're entering a new era at Kickback Soccer Media. David Gass and Susannah Fuller sit down to talk about two incredible new shows, and to meet our HUGE winter window signing...Matt Doyle!It's Kickback Soccer Media 2.0, and we can't wait to share this momentous soccer year for American soccer with you!Listen to our shows, subscribe our newsletter on: https://kickbacksoccer.com/Subscribe to TacticsFreeZone: https://tacticsfreezone.ghost.io/an-end-to-my-days-at-mls-and-my-plan-for-whats-next/

2026 could be the biggest year in the history of American soccer. As co-hosts of the largest World Cup ever, the U.S. men’s national team enters the tournament with real expectations—and a familiar question hanging over everything: is this finally the tipping point where the sport stops disappearing for four years at a time? In this World Cup Capsule, David Gass breaks down the full story of the Red, White, and Blue, with USMNT icon Clint Dempsey weighing in on what a deep run could mean for the country. We trace the surprisingly deep roots of the game in the United States—early leagues, the American Soccer League boom of the 1920s, and the chaos of the Soccer Wars—before jumping into the NASL fever dream, when Pelé, Cruyff, Beckenbauer and the Cosmos made soccer feel like the center of the sports universe. From there, we revisit the moments that built modern U.S. soccer: the legendary 1950 upset over England, the 1994 World Cup that changed fandom forever, and the roller coaster era from 2002’s quarterfinal run to “Go Go USA” in 2010, the 2014 Group of Death, and the 2018 failure that still stings. Then it’s all about now: a host nation with a golden generation in Europe, a new era under Mauricio Pochettino, and a squad trying to rediscover the edge that defined past U.S. teams. We spotlight Diego Luna as the young player to watch—fearless, feisty, and quickly becoming the fan favorite symbol of old-school USMNT grit—and we frame the stakes plainly: in a manageable Group D with Paraguay, Australia, and one more European opponent to be determined, anything less than a quarterfinal run on home soil will feel like a disappointment.

There are plenty of countries with rich soccer history, but you don’t get more “original power” than Uruguay. In this World Cup Capsule, David Gass dives into La Celeste. The first true giant of the sport, built on garra charrúa, the national mindset of grit, fight, and doing whatever it takes to win. We trace Uruguay’s roots from British influence and the earliest clubs, to the oldest international rivalry outside the UK—the Clásico del Río de la Plata with Argentina—and the era when Uruguay essentially owned global football: Olympic gold in 1924 and 1928, then hosting and winning the first-ever World Cup in 1930. Then we jump to the modern era under Marcelo Bielsa—high press, high chaos, high belief—as Uruguay clinch qualification out of brutal CONMEBOL and head to 2026 with Federico Valverde as the new face of the team and a deep cast that includes Darwin Núñez, José María Giménez, Rodrigo Bentancur, and more. We spotlight a young difference-maker to watch (including Manuel Ugarte), honor forgotten icon José Leandro Andrade, and explain why Uruguay’s domestic passion—Peñarol vs Nacional—still powers a country of just a few million into World Cup relevance every generation.

Mexico has been the backdrop for some of the World Cup’s most iconic moments—and in 2026, El Tri host the tournament for a record third time, hoping home soil can spark another magical run. In this World Cup Capsule, David Gass explores Mexico’s deep football identity, its huge domestic league culture, and the enormous pressure of being a host nation—even if expectations for the current squad are lower than usual. We start at the roots: Cornish miners bringing the game to Real del Monte in the 1800s, the rise of organized leagues, and how the 1970 World Cup ignited the golden age of Liga MX—with massive crowds, playoff drama, and a club landscape that has dominated CONCACAF for decades. Then we hit Mexico’s World Cup history: early struggles, the host-fueled quarterfinal runs of 1970 and 1986, and the brutal modern reality of the “Fifth Game” curse—six straight Round of 16 exits from 1994–2014, followed by the shock group-stage elimination in 2022. On the road to 2026, we break down the constant coaching churn and the return of Javier Aguirre (for a third stint), now alongside Rafa Márquez as the succession plan. We look at the veteran core—Raúl Jiménez, Edson Álvarez, Santiago Giménez, Chucky Lozano—and spotlight teenage phenomenon Gilberto Mora as the young player to know. We also celebrate Mexico’s true superpower: the stage. From Estadio Azteca—one of football’s most legendary, intimidating venues—to the host city energy of Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, Mexico will deliver the atmosphere. The big question is whether El Tri can deliver the run.